Discover Natural Wonders And Immersive Cultural Experiences On A Curated Tour In Bali

It’s the ecstasy of exploration, the rapturous delight in experiences that leave us changed somehow, that brings us to captivating destinations like the island of Bali in Indonesia. Whether it’s seeking out natural spaces—verdant terraced landscapes, powerful waterfalls, sunrise mountain hikes—or simply leaving your heart and mind open to genuine connections with others, travel here will crack your spirit and intellect wide open.

Clement Boudic, founder of a newfangled tour company in Bali, wanted to unite the Balinese community with travelers who seek enriching experiences. He saw a way to link locals, who could benefit from tourism support, with holiday-makers pursuing the true essence of the island through compelling exchanges. “In 2020, Niskala Tours emerged from a vision that had been brewing in my soul for five years spent exploring hidden corners of Bali,” says Boudic. “It was born from the fusion of my personal love of Bali and the entrepreneurial spirit within me, based on my background in high-end hospitality, yachting, and Formula One. My hope is that everyone finds their unique purpose, merging their passion with their profession.”

Understanding that meaningful travel experiences go well beyond the regular tourist track, Boudic, who has been in the hospitality space for two decades, discovered profound joy within the walls of Balinese households. “It's not just about witnessing their daily life; it's about becoming a part of it,” says Boudic. “In these homes, the air is always thick with the aroma of traditional dishes being crafted with love, the melodies of gamelan grace the air, women are rehearsing traditional dances, artisans are working on their masterpieces, high priestess are handling blessing ceremonies. To me, these moments aren't just snapshots; they're the very soul of Bali. And this essence inspires us to weave this raw, unfiltered beauty of the island into the Niskala experiences.”

Bringing people and communities together in this way is, of course, positively gratifying. “Imagine stepping beyond the typical tourist facade into the authentic heartbeat of the island—we're not here to provide just a fleeting glance; we're here to offer a profound, immersive experience that reveals the Bali we've passionately explored,” says Boudic. “Exploring Ubud and its surroundings is a mélange of human connection, natural wonders, spiritual experiences and unique arts.”

Boudic goes on to say, “This isn't your ordinary day trip; this is a journey into the raw, unfiltered soul of Bali. For the curious souls who seek more than the conventional, we unveil hidden cultural and natural gems, diverse tastes, and undiscovered locations. Every tour we craft is a masterpiece, individually tailored to our guests' interests and desires.”

The fact is, these excursions aren’t just quick pop-ins, created to tick off an experience just to say you’ve done it. Well-curated, with both the client and the local community in mind, these outings not only highlight special locales, but also, leave space for special moments to blossom and echo in a simpatico fashion. “This isn't just a tour; it's a once in a lifetime experience that transforms your perception and enriches your soul,” says Boudic.

It's All About the Guides

The guides that lead these enriching cultural experiences are not only cultural enthusiasts, but also, storytellers who are passionate about Bali. Under their leadership, guests are able to see, taste, and experience things they likely couldn’t do on their own otherwise.

“We meticulously select guides who resonate with our vision of unique tourism, individuals who breathe life into our philosophy,” says Boudic. “Their selection goes beyond travel guide licensing; it's about finding guides who embody the soul of Bali, who understand the intricacies of our unique concept, and who are genuinely eager to delve into the tailor-made experiences we curate for our guests.”

Experience the Unseen

The ethos at Niskala Tours, “experiencing the unseen”, goes subterranean for each and every bespoke itinerary and three themes encapsulate the journey. Boudic recommends the following:

Firstly, "In Footsteps of Balinese," where guests don't just observe but embody the essence of Balinese life. It's a chance to be a Balinese for a day, to walk their paths, understand their customs, experience their unique rituals, live their daily life, and truly feel the pulse of the island. Tailoring the experience to specific interests and desires, a personalized journey that ensures every moment resonates is crafted.

Then, there's the "Spiritual Tour," a profound journey into Balinese spirituality. Imagine visiting revered healers, participating in ancient blessing ceremonies, and cleansing your body and soul in sacred purifications—a spiritual experience that transcends the ordinary.

Lastly, the "Wellness Experience" invites you to rejuvenate amidst nature's embraces. Picture practicing yoga amidst the whispering leaves, surrendering to the healing melodies of sound healing, and indulging in massages amidst the jungle's serenity—a holistic one day retreat designed to restore both body and soul.

Where to Stay

Partnering with Niskala Tours, Viceroy Bali embodies the same values and emphasis on uniqueness, sustainability, and exceptional service. “For guests seeking a deeper connection with Bali, a journey into the authentic and the extraordinary, Viceroy Bali becomes more than a hotel—it becomes a gateway to the soul of the island,” says Boudic. “Together, we transform ordinary moments into unforgettable, authentic adventures, shaping memories that linger long after the journey ends.”

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